Wireless Power Transmission Research in Finland: A New Chapter in Contactless Energy
The ability to transmit energy without physical cables has long been a goal of scientists and engineers. In recent years, Finland has emerged as an important center for research into wireless power transmission, exploring how electricity can be delivered through air using controlled physical principles rather than traditional wires.
Research groups associated with the University of Helsinki and the University of Oulu are investigating multiple methods of contactless power transfer, focusing on precision, safety, and efficiency. Their work represents a meaningful step forward in understanding how energy can be guided and delivered without direct electrical connections.
Laser-Based Power Transmission
One of the most promising approaches involves laser power transmission, also known as optical power transmission. In this method, energy is converted into a focused beam of light and directed toward a receiver equipped with photovoltaic cells. These cells convert the incoming light back into electrical power.
This technique has been successfully demonstrated in controlled environments and offers clear advantages for powering remote sensors, autonomous systems, and equipment located in hazardous or inaccessible areas. Because no physical cables are required, maintenance is reduced and electrical isolation is improved. However, laser-based power transfer requires precise alignment, clear line-of-sight conditions, and operates at carefully regulated power levels.
Acoustic and Plasma-Guided Experiments
Another area of Finnish research explores the interaction between ultrasonic waves and electrical discharges. By using high-frequency sound waves to shape temporary plasma channels in the air, scientists can guide electrical sparks along controlled paths. This phenomenon is sometimes described as an “acoustic wire.”
While this method does not transmit continuous electrical power for devices or infrastructure, it provides valuable insight into electrical discharge control, plasma physics, and advanced energy guidance techniques. Such research contributes to safer electrical systems and a deeper understanding of how energy behaves in complex environments.
RF Energy Harvesting and Ambient Power
Finnish researchers are also advancing RF energy harvesting, a technique that captures small amounts of energy from ambient electromagnetic waves, such as radio signals. This harvested energy can power ultra-low-consumption electronics, including sensors and monitoring devices used in smart infrastructure and industrial applications.
Although the power levels involved are minimal, RF energy harvesting plays an important role in reducing battery waste and enabling long-term, maintenance-free operation of connected devices.
Expanding the Future of Wireless Energy
Together, these research paths highlight Finland’s contribution to the evolving field of wireless electricity and directed energy transfer. Rather than replacing conventional power grids, these technologies aim to complement existing systems by enabling new use cases where cables are impractical or undesirable.
As experimental research continues, wireless power transmission is expected to play an increasingly important role in sensing, automation, space systems, and advanced industrial environments. Finland’s work demonstrates how careful scientific exploration can expand the boundaries of how energy is delivered—quietly, precisely, and without physical contact.
